out of 5 stars by
AppAppeal Editor
Most websites offer users a place to shop existing lists of items and gather information on merchandise. Pikaba does things a little differently. Rather than starting with the product and ending with the user, this website reverses the order. The search begins with the user, who posts a request for a product or service. Next, responses are provided that either offers advice for purchasing the requested product or service, or allow merchants to offer a quote. The last step ends with the user selecting the service or product out of the responses.
The creators of Pikaba were searching for a way to make a new shopping experience that allowed room for social networking as well. The concept was realized and emerged as a way for shoppers to learn about products and services through other users and merchants. Features have been added in recent months, including quick request forms, an online car parts page, and a first car buying assistance tool. The site is constantly evolving and enhancing what it offers to visitors, which has contributed to its growth.
Pikaba’s approach to combining social networking and shopping is what makes it unique. Rather than browsing and buying, users can actually gain knowledge on products and services to make a better choice before spending money. The social networking elements also make the website a useful resource for new visitors as well as a popular haunt for seasoned users. Inquiries can be made so that users can get relevant, helpful answers that could assist them in making a large purchase.
The site design combined with the green and blue color scheme makes Pikaba a fun place to learn and share information. The website presents playful colors, but in a way that does not detract from the information offered here. The text is very easy to read and no busy graphics or flashing banner ads are present. Thumbnail images are also included for various categories and products, which makes navigation even easier.
By clicking the blue “Join now” link at the top right hand corner of the homepage, a new user can begin the registration process. Buyers can fill out a login name, password, email address, country, state and zip code. Sellers can click the appropriate link to create a seller account instead. The seller account includes more entry fields so that businesses and professionals can showcase their products or services. These fields include Skype contact name, website URL, business name, contact phone number and details for a primary contact person for the account. Users are also able to upload a profile image if they wish to do so. No email verification is required to login and access account features after registration, however it is requested.
All users can create a Pikaba account for free. No payments are required and at this point no premium paid account is offered. Seller accounts are set up a little differently, and allow merchants to list their services or items. Still, Pikaba has no fees listed for this feature. Sellers can add and update their inventory through Pikaba or through other popular selling websites, including Ebay. These third party sites may require fees for listing items for sale; nothing is noted about Pikaba requiring a fee for this service.
Small business owners can really appreciate the free promotion offered through Pikaba. The site not only allows listings online, but also helps users search by area code so selling can be done offline as well. Shoppers looking for more information can also appreciate this free online resource, which provides detailed information on specific inquiries. Users can list the product or service they need and get direct answers rather than skimming merchant websites to find honest answers to their questions.
English
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